Far From "Dated", This '00s Trend Is the Key to Looking Chic Right Now—Gen Z and Millennials Agree

Gen Z and millennials get pitted against each other a lot, but I—someone who falls into the former camp—think that trope is a little tired.

When it comes to fashion, we might approach things a little differently, but what I find more interesting is how many trends and looks crossover between the generations. Boho is definitely one of them.

The boho aesthetic is rooted in free-spirited style. Its signatures include romantic details such as flouncing and ruffles, often found in blouse or dress form, worn with more structured items, such as corduroy trousers or leather separates. Basically, look at any outfit worn by Sienna Miller circa 2004 and you’ll get the idea. And that’s just it; boho fashion was so prevalent in the early ‘00s that it largely became synonymous with millennials. However, when it made a huge comeback last year, it didn’t take long for a whole new generation—my generation—to see the appeal.

At the start of 2024, you could practically smell the boho comeback on the horizon. What was harder to predict, however, was how it would completely reshape the fashion landscape. The modern boho revival was solidified at Chemena Kamali’s debut at Chloé for autumn/winter 2024. That said, I distinctly recall the delicate lace maxi dresses, buckled boots and artfully tied headscarves that came streaming down Dior’s Cruise 2021 runway, planting the seed early that boho was on its way back.

Since then, we’ve seen countless boho-inspired brands embrace the look, from Dôen to Free People and Gimuguas, making it more widespread than ever before. So, how is this playing out where boho outfits are concerned?

Today, we're seeing boho blend with other trends to create something more unique and personal to the wearer. Think denim on denim spliced with waterfalls of lace, maximalist tiered hems adding volume to minimalist staples and period drama-esque loose bloomers adding a floaty feel to a poplin tee.

To inspire your own boho outfits, I’ve assembled an edit of the chicest ways fashion people are incorporating the aesthetic into their looks now. Scroll on to see them.

5 Boho Outfit Ideas to Try Now

1. Lace Detail + Jeans + Trainers

Style Notes: The easiest way to channel boho is through lace detailing. With an ethereal vibe, the lingerie-inspired fabric soared in popularity this summer, spotted on everyone, including Alexa Chung and Sienna Miller. Choose a suitably lacy blouse or top and just add jeans and suede accessories.

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2. Shearling Coat + Lace Dress + Slouchy Boots

Style Notes: My favourite thing about autumn is a one-and-done coat, and this year, I'll be nailing the boho vibe with a shearling number. Less polished than glossy faux furs, look for something with a shaggy trim to give that nonchalant feel that goes hand in hand with the aesthetic. Finish with a slouchy suede boot, and you're ready to breeze into your day.

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3. Tiered Dress + Belt + Necklace

Style Notes: A big part of updating boho for 2025 lies in your accessory choices. Thankfully, we've come a long way since the feathered earrings and knee-high gladiator sandals that were prolific the first time around. Instead, look for sleek options you can wear over pretty dresses. Suede belts, chains and charm jewellery are chic starting points.

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4. Cropped Jacket + Miniskirt + Boots

Style Notes: Proportion is key to nailing boho dressing—just look at all those billowing maxi dresses. Make this work day-to-day with a draped, fluid jacket and a bubble-hem skirt. Add riding boots for a sleek, 2025 finish.

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5. Blouse + Denim Midi Skirt + Head Scarf

Style Notes: Perhaps the hardest working piece in any boho capsule wardrobe is a light and breezy pair of trousers. Whilst jeans are trusty and reliable, floaty trousers tap into the romanticism of the look. The key to making them feel even more on-trend is loose layers; throw on a cotton poplin blouse and barn jacket up top. If you're not into Rebecca Wyatt's divisive Maison Margiela Tabis (pictured above), a biker boot or simple ballet flat will do the trick. A dash of cow print ups the fun.

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